What To Do During a Dental Emergency

Experiencing a dental emergency can be both alarming and painful, leaving you in urgent need of professional care. In these critical moments, knowing that there’s a dedicated emergency dentist ready to provide immediate relief and treatment can make all the difference. At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, we address dental emergencies with empathy and efficiency, ensuring that you receive the care you need when you need it most.

What Is Considered a Dental Emergency?

A dental emergency is any oral health problem that requires prompt attention from an emergency dentist to alleviate persistent pain, stop bleeding, or save a damaged tooth. Common scenarios that constitute a dental emergency include:

• Intense toothache causing unmanageable discomfort
• Uncontrollable bleeding within the oral cavity
• Swelling in the jaw or face indicative of infection
• A tooth that has become partially or completely knocked out
• Severe chips, cracks, or fractures in a tooth
• Loss or damage to dental restorations like crowns or fillings

What Isn’t Considered a Dental Emergency?

Some dental issues are urgent, but we can address others at a regular appointment. While every dental concern merits attention, emergencies require immediate attention to prevent risks to your health or comfort.

We can handle the issues below during our regular business hours:

• Mild toothache
• Broken braces
• A small chip
• A small cut or sore in the mouth
• Something stuck in your teeth

A root canal is one procedure that is sometimes used in an emergency situation. The vast majority of root canal treatments are done during regularly scheduled appointments. However, in certain cases, the infection in your mouth can be severe, potentially spreading and leading to serious health issues.

If you are in pain and think you need a root canal, you should contact our office to schedule treatment immediately.

The Emergency Room vs. The Dentist’s Office

One of the most common questions in a dental crisis is: Should I go to the emergency room? The answer is generally no—not if you can get to a dentist first. In 2018, there were over 2 million dental-related visits to the ER. The problem with going to the ER for a dental emergency is that they don’t have dentists on staff. While ER staff can certainly help relieve pain and stop bleeding, you’ll need to visit your dentist for specific treatments to address the root problem.

Now, if you’re experiencing uncontrollable bleeding or other life-threatening situations and you can’t contact a dentist, then yes, you should go to the emergency room. However, in every other case, it’s best to seek an emergency dentist to diagnose and treat your problems properly. Dr. Aristodemo and her experienced team will schedule you for same-day treatment, providing the emergency dentistry services you need in a timely manner.

What If It’s After Business Hours?

If you need emergency dental services while our office is closed, you should still call our practice. We’ll have instructions on your outgoing voicemail about what to do in an emergency, and there may even be an on-call dentist who can provide treatment.

The Role of an Emergency Dentist

Emergency dentistry aims to alleviate pain, prevent the situation from worsening, and set the foundation for long-term oral health. At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, we use the latest dental technologies and techniques to offer high-quality, immediate care for dental emergencies. Our approach involves:

• Prompt diagnostics: We use advanced imaging technology to quickly assess the extent of the damage and plan an effective treatment.
• Pain relief: We administer local anesthesia to ensure a pain-free experience during emergency procedures. Dr. Aristodemo can also prescribe medications to help relieve pain or prevent infection.
• Comprehensive treatment options: We’re prepared to address many dental emergencies, from tooth restorations and root canal therapy to gum disease treatment and tooth extractions.

How Much Does a Dental Emergency Cost?

We understand that a dental emergency can be stressful—not just physically but also financially. Our team is here to help you navigate your insurance and financing options, making treatment accessible regardless of your budget. We also offer an in-house discount plan for those without insurance, allowing a wider range of patients to access affordable dental services.

Preventing Dental Emergencies

While some dental emergencies can’t be prevented, maintaining regular dental checkups and a strong oral hygiene routine can significantly reduce your risk. Dr. Aristodemo emphasizes the importance of preventative care to avoid situations that require emergency intervention.

Your Emergency Dentist in Schaumburg, IL

When faced with a dental emergency, time is of the essence. Having a trusted emergency dentist like Dr. Aristodemo can provide peace of mind and assurance that you’re in good hands. At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, we prioritize your health and comfort, offering same-day appointments for urgent needs. If you ever experience a dental emergency, contact our office right away and experience the difference expert dental care can make.